In the thrilling cricket rivalry between India and England, fielding has often played a game-changing role. Taking a catch isn’t just about luck it demands precision, awareness, and outstanding reflexes. Over the years, several players have stood out by delivering exceptional performances in the field. In this article, we dive deep into the Most catches in a match for England vs India in Tests, highlighting the top 10 individual fielding efforts that turned the tide of historic matches.
List of Top 10 Players with Most Catches in a Match for England vs India in Tests
10. Mike Brearley – 5 Catches (1977, Chennai)

Mike Brearley, known for his sharp cricketing brain and calm leadership, was also a dependable fielder. In the 1977 Chennai Test against India, he took 5 catches, making it one of the standout fielding performances for England during that series. His positioning and judgment were spot-on, assisting his bowlers with vital breakthroughs.
This effort is one of the earliest examples of the Most catches in a match for England vs India in Tests, showcasing Brearley’s all-round cricketing intellect.
Player | Team | Opposition | Ground | Catches |
---|---|---|---|---|
Mike Brearley | England | India | Chennai | 5 |
9. Eknath Solkar – 5 Catches (1973, Chennai)

Eknath Solkar is often remembered as one of India’s greatest close-in fielders. His fearless attitude at short-leg was unmatched. In the 1973 Chennai Test, he took 5 sharp catches, standing just inches from the batsman. His efforts were not only brave but technically perfect.
This moment became a hallmark for close-in fielding brilliance, reinforcing Solkar’s place in the history of Most catches in a match for England vs India in Tests.
Player | Team | Opposition | Ground | Catches |
---|---|---|---|---|
Eknath Solkar | India | England | Chennai | 5 |
8. Tony Greig – 5 Catches (1972, Delhi)

Tony Greig, known for his energy and aggressive spirit, showcased his fielding skills during the 1972 Delhi Test. He held onto 5 solid catches, helping England to restrict India’s batting strength. Greig’s athleticism and sharp reflexes made him a reliable asset in the field.
His fielding effort was a major highlight and remains part of the celebrated list for Most catches in a match for England vs India in Tests.
Player | Team | Opposition | Ground | Catches |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tony Greig | England | India | Delhi | 5 |
7. Ajit Wadekar – 5 Catches (1967, Birmingham)

Ajit Wadekar was not only an intelligent batsman and captain but also a sharp fielder. During the 1967 Birmingham Test, he took 5 clean catches, reflecting his exceptional anticipation and focus. His presence in the slips added value to India’s defense.
Wadekar’s contribution finds its deserving place among the Most catches in a match for England vs India in Tests, thanks to his safe hands and cricket awareness.
Player | Team | Opposition | Ground | Catches |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ajit Wadekar | India | England | Birmingham | 5 |
6. Douglas Jardine – 5 Catches (1934, Eden Gardens)

Douglas Jardine, famous for his role in the Bodyline series, showed his fielding class in the 1934 Test at Eden Gardens. He took 5 important catches, helping England maintain their dominance. His classic fielding style set an example for the generations that followed.
This effort remains a significant entry in the records of the Most catches in a match for England vs India in Tests, especially from the early days of cricket.
Player | Team | Opposition | Ground | Catches |
---|---|---|---|---|
Douglas Jardine | England | India | Eden Gardens | 5 |
5. Zak Crawley – 6 Catches (2022, Birmingham)

Zak Crawley’s name entered the record books during the 2022 Birmingham Test when he grabbed 6 catches. Positioned perfectly in the slips, Crawley displayed excellent technique and concentration. His catches were not only safe but timely, often breaking strong Indian partnerships.
Crawley’s outstanding performance adds a modern touch to the historic list of Most catches in a match for England vs India in Tests.
Player | Team | Opposition | Ground | Catches |
---|---|---|---|---|
Zak Crawley | England | India | Birmingham | 6 |
4. Moeen Ali – 6 Catches (2021, The Oval)

All-rounder Moeen Ali shined in the field during the 2021 Oval Test, taking 6 sharp catches. Whether it was slip or short cover, Moeen didn’t let anything pass him. His quick reflexes and commitment helped England stay ahead in the match.
Ali’s display of fielding excellence rightly earns him a place in the Most catches in a match for England vs India in Tests rankings.
Player | Team | Opposition | Ground | Catches |
---|---|---|---|---|
Moeen Ali | England | India | The Oval | 6 |
3. Virender Sehwag – 6 Catches (2002, Leeds)

Virender Sehwag, mostly known for his aggressive batting, delivered a surprise package in the 2002 Leeds Test by taking 6 catches. His efforts in the slips and gully positions helped India control England’s innings effectively.
This performance stands as a remarkable moment in the timeline of Most catches in a match for England vs India in Tests, highlighting Sehwag’s lesser-known fielding skills.
Player | Team | Opposition | Ground | Catches |
---|---|---|---|---|
Virender Sehwag | India | England | Leeds | 6 |
2. KL Rahul – 7 Catches (2018, Nottingham)

KL Rahul created history by equaling the record for most catches in a match with 7 grabs during the 2018 Nottingham Test. Each of his catches in the slip cordon was flawless, showing calm hands and alert positioning. Rahul’s contribution gave India a crucial edge.
This performance remains one of the most talked-about examples of the Most catches in a match for England vs India in Tests.
Player | Team | Opposition | Ground | Catches |
---|---|---|---|---|
KL Rahul | India | England | Nottingham | 7 |
1. Yajurvindra Singh – 7 Catches (1977, Bengaluru)

At the top of the list is Yajurvindra Singh, who took a record-breaking 7 catches in a single match at Bengaluru in 1977. His reflexes at close-in positions were extraordinary. Every catch added pressure on England, shifting momentum toward India.
Singh’s legendary performance continues to lead the record of the Most catches in a match for England vs India in Tests, standing strong even decades later.
Player | Team | Opposition | Ground | Catches |
---|---|---|---|---|
Yajurvindra Singh | India | England | Bengaluru | 7 |
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FAQ
Q1. Who holds the record for most catches in a match between India and England in Tests?
A: Yajurvindra Singh and KL Rahul share the record with 7 catches each.
Q2. Which English player has the most catches in one match against India?
A: Moeen Ali and Zak Crawley both took 6 catches in a match against India.
Q3. Has any fielder taken 5 catches or more in the early years of this rivalry?
A: Yes, Douglas Jardine took 5 catches in 1934 at Eden Gardens.
Q4. How important is fielding in Test cricket?
A: Fielding is extremely important. A dropped catch can change the entire course of a match.
Q5. Who are some of the most reliable fielders for India and England in Tests?
A: Players like Rahul Dravid, KL Rahul, Moeen Ali, and Ben Stokes have proven to be safe hands in the field.